COUNSELLOR AND PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Not sure about this online counselling thing?
You might be wondering how effective online counselling and psychotherapy really is. I've shared what the research says below. Read on to find out if this way of working feels right for you.
WHAT IS ONLINE COUNSELLING AND PSYCHOTHERAPY?
First, let's paint a clear picture. Online counselling and psychotherapy, also known as teletherapy or e-therapy, refers to therapeutic services provided via the internet. This can take the form of video calls or phone calls. But does the absence of a physical setting make counselling and psychotherapy less effective?
DOES ONLINE COUNSELLING AND PSYCHOTHERAPY WORK?
The good news is yes! Research says online works. Firstly, for many experiences like depression, anxiety, stress and living with long-term conditions, online psychotherapy has show equivalent results to in-person psychotherapy. Secondly, many people face multiple barriers to in-person counselling and psychotherapy. For people living in remote areas, or people who have mobility issues, online psychotherapy can mean support that was previously inaccessible due to it's physical location is made possible from more comfortable locations. In other words, it opens doors to services that might have been previously out of reach. Lastly, being in a private environment of your own choice can make it easier to open up about your experiences. Whether it's from your own home, or a friends place, you can experience greater comfort when you get to do online psychotherapy on your own terms.
IS THERE ANYTHING I NEED TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING ONLINE?
While online counselling and psychotherapy can be as effective as in-person, there are a few points worth considering: 1. Online counselling and psychotherapy is not a crisis service. If you are in distress, crisis or need urgent help/or are at immediate risk of harm to yourself or someone else, contact your GP or emergency services on 999 immediately. If you are thinking about suicide or self-harm, please contact Samaritans on 116 123, NHS 111, or Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 97. 2. Sometimes, tech issues like poor internet connections can interrupt sessions. In these cases, I will have a back up plan of calling you on the phone ready. However, this might not feel right for everyone. 3. Privacy is essential while working online. I use Zoom because it's a secure platform, but I also encourage you to consider the environment you are in. Does it protect your confidentiality in the way that works best for you?
In the end, whether you choose online or in-person, the most important aspect of your experience is the therapeutic relationship we grow together. Feeling comfortable and connected is what supports you to build a trusting, safe and self-aware relationship with yourself. So, while online counselling psychotherapy definitely works for many, the best approach is the one that suits your individual needs and circumstances.
The journey to feeling more resourced to deal with life's challenges is deeply personal. Whether you're navigating it through the lanes of the internet or in-person, what matters most is taking that step towards understanding yourself, your needs and healing.
Cheers to you for exploring your options and prioritising yourself!